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We are people focused. We are genuine. We have integrity. We will develop. We are a team.”

These values define our personality. They are our statement about what we stand for and what we believe in, and they are the basis behind the decisions we make every single day.

Do you have a passion for creating tasty and nutritious meals? Do you like supporting people while working with passion? If so, this role could be just right for you.

Location: Ridgeway Plus Day Centre, Links Road, Weymouth

£13.08 - £13.31 per hour

0-hour contract

Weekdays only -Monday to Friday

Development and ongoing training

Refer a friend scheme up to £300

Care Dorset offers fantastic benefits:

Generous Annual leave entitlement - starting at 27 days, rising to 31 after 5 years (exc. Bank holidays) pro rata

Enhanced Maternity Pay

Occupational Sick pay entitlement from day one

Funded Blue Light discount package (superb discounts on travel, leisure, entertainment and more)

Access to Employee Assistance Programme

Comprehensive induction

Excellent training & development opportunities supporting career progression.

Access to Litmos online learning platform – our one stop shop for learning & development

Refer a Friend Bonus - up to £300 per person you refer (uncapped and paid on successful appointment)

Celebrated success through annual awards ceremony

About the role:

This role is required to cover long-term sickness absence and future absences (e.g. non-working days, sickness, annual leave, training).

The Head Cook will prepare, cook and serve meals under the direction of the line manager and supervise kitchen staff. They will work within agreed principles and guidelines, with minimal supervision from the line manager. Work will be largely regulated by laid down procedures with little requirement for creative or innovatory thinking. Contacts will be generally routine or incidental involving the exchange of information on non-contentious matters.

Responsibilities and Accountabilities:

Planning menus within available budgets and ordering supplies, maintaining stock and portion control.

Preparation of meals in accordance with menu requirements including special dietary requirements.

Supervise other kitchen staff.

Maintain records as appropriate, including control of provisions.

Maintain good practice in all matters relating to food preparation and use of kitchens.

Order food and check as appropriate deliveries for quality, quantity and description.

Any other lesser or comparable duties as required relating to the particular specialised function of the team or teams

Person Specification Must haves:

Basic Food Hygiene certificate.

Experience and knowledge of modified and specialist dietary requirements

Recognised catering qualification NVQ Level 2

Excellent food hygiene and catering provision knowledge

Proven Menu planning knowledge

Stock control

High level of practical cooking skills

Demonstrable food preparation and catering experience

Demonstrable handling and preparation

Maintaining excellent hygiene in food preparation areas

Good to have:

City and Guilds 706

Budget management experience

Supervisory experience

Stock control

Handling cash

Supervisory skills

If you are enthusiastic about making a positive difference in people's lives and meet the requirements mentioned above, we would love to hear from you.

We know that a career in care is not for everyone – but it could be for you. Join our team and contribute to enhancing the wellness of those we care for. Apply now and be part of a rewarding journey towards support and positive change